Candidiasis

Not many people know what Candidiasis is, but talk about yeast infection and everyone nods with a look of complete understanding and sympathy. So what is Candidiasis? It is an infection that is caused by a group of tiny microscopic fungi or yeast. These fungi or yeast are called candida and the most common of the lot is the candida albicans fungus. These fungi are found to be surviving on all parts of the body and they thrive in warm and moist conditions.

Candidiasis normally occurs in parts of the body like underarms and genital region. Babies get Candidiasis as well, but mostly in the diaper area and the mouth. These days more and more adults are getting yeast infection in the mouth, and this risk increases with the advancing of age. But other areas of Candidiasis are near dentures, under the breasts, lower abdomen, nail bed and areas where skin folds and becomes moist. Though Candidiasis is treated easily, there are cases where it spreads to the body and in conditions of systemic candidal disease; up to 75% people die. Remember that as soon as you notice signs of Candidiasis or a yeast infection get a thorough check up as it could be the underlying cause of another more serious disease like diabetes, leukemia or AIDS.

Signs and Symptoms of Candidiasis

There are different signs and symptoms that can help you detect Candidiasis and get treatment as soon as possible. These are:

• Women with genital Candidiasis or yeast infection in the genital region will notice a thick whitish discharge, along with that it will cause irritation in the genitals and surrounding areas. In some cases there may be pain and irritation while urinating and during intercourse.
• When a person has oral Candidiasis it is called thrush. In this case a person has thick, white patches on the tongue, palate or gums, these will be on a large red patch. They will look like patches of milk curd but cannot be wiped off as easily. Thrush is painful and makes eating difficult.
• A skin rash with scalloped edges is a classic sign of skin Candidiasis.
• If the candida has entered your bloodstream you will be prone to fever, which can spread to the brain and be harmful.

Treating Candidiasis

Though Candidiasis can be a serious infection, it can be treated quite simply with over the counter medication. Women with genital Candidiasis can use:

• Miconazole – Monistat – derm, monistat vaginal.
• Tioconazole – Vagistat vaginal.
• Butoconazole – Femstat.
• Clotrimazole – Femizole 7, Gyne – Lotrimin.

These creams are to be massaged into the genital area for 7 days and after which if the irritation hasn’t subsided then it is best to discontinue medication and then consult with a doctor. Pregnant women shouldn’t take these treatments without consultation with a doctor. In case of Thrush:

• Gargle using an ant fungal nystatin and remember to be extra careful with oral hygiene.
• In case of children, all toys that are put in the mouth should be thoroughly sterilized.
• Candida should be checked for women who are breastfeeding so as to avoid transferring it to their babies.
• Medication such as fluconazole – Diflucan along with nystatin can be used for adults.

In case of Skin Candidiasis:

• Use clotrimazole cream and lotion on the skin surface and keep the area clean and dry.
• If it is a diaper rash, change the diaper often and keep the area as dry as possible.